Fostering takes on a new meaning during special occasions such as Father’s Day. It can be challenging at any time, but on important days like this, it’s not uncommon for foster children to experience a wide range of emotions. The feeling of abandonment can reignite, along with anger and sadness at the situation. It’s hard too, for you as a foster parent to know how to handle the day and how you can support them through this difficult time.
There are actually lessons that can be learned from events such as Father’s Day. In some cases, it can make the bond between foster parent and foster child even stronger. Here you’ll find out everything you need to know about surviving Father’s Day and every other special occasion.
Supporting the child
No matter how old they are, one of the best ways to support your foster child is to discuss the situation. Find out how they feel. While many children do feel a unique sense of loss on days like Father’s Day, for others they see their foster dad as a father figure so they’re happy to celebrate that relationship instead.
It’s important to listen to the child, rather than assume how they feel and interrupt when they’re opening up. Children can find it difficult to talk about their emotions, especially if they don’t understand them. Be patient, listen and discuss their concerns and feelings. If they feel supported, when the day arrives they’ll be able to deal with it in a much healthier and happier way.
Creating your own celebration
If the child isn’t able to see their biological father on Father’s Day, you can adopt your own unique celebration. Foster father’s play a large role in a foster child’s life and a strong bond naturally develops. Therefore, it’s common to have a celebration in honour of that relationship.
As long as you let the child know you aren’t trying to replace their biological father, they will embrace the chance to get involved in their own celebration. It can help make them feel loved and secure.
Case studies show that foster children often see their foster parents as their family, particularly if they’ve been placed with them for a long time. So they’re more than happy to celebrate the day honouring the father figure in their lives.
Overall Father’s Day, and any other special days that involve celebrating family ties, can be difficult for foster children. However, when handled in the right way, the difficult emotions experienced can be greatly reduced and a “Foster Day” celebration can be a fantastic way to ensure they don’t feel left out.